17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania Lung Cancer Score Hospital Score

The Hospital Score for the Lung Cancer Score in 17023, Elizabethville, Pennsylvania is 67 when comparing 34,000 ZIP Codes in the United States.

## Lung Cancer Care in the Harrisburg Area: A Scorecard for Patients Near 17023

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a critical decision. For residents near ZIP code 17023 (Elizabethtown, Pennsylvania), several hospitals offer varying levels of care. This review provides a fact-based assessment, focusing on key metrics like CMS star ratings, ER wait times, specialized centers, and telehealth capabilities, to help patients navigate this complex landscape.

**The Landscape: Flagship Hospitals and Key Players**

The Harrisburg area is served by a network of hospitals, each with its strengths and weaknesses. The presence of major healthcare systems like Penn State Health and UPMC adds depth to the available resources. Understanding the nuances of each facility is crucial for informed decision-making.

**Penn State Health Milton S. Hershey Medical Center:**

Located in Hershey, PA, this is the flagship hospital of the Penn State Health system. It's a major academic medical center and often serves as a referral hub for complex cases. Hershey Medical Center holds a 4-star rating from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This rating reflects overall quality, safety, and patient experience. However, it's important to understand that CMS ratings are just one data point.

Hershey Medical Center boasts a comprehensive cancer institute. This includes specialized lung cancer programs with multidisciplinary teams. These teams typically involve pulmonologists, thoracic surgeons, medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, and other specialists working collaboratively. They offer advanced diagnostic tools, including state-of-the-art imaging and minimally invasive surgical techniques. Telehealth is increasingly integrated into their services, providing remote consultations and follow-up care. Specific telehealth statistics, such as the number of virtual visits for oncology patients, are generally not publicly available, but the trend is towards increased utilization.

ER wait times at Hershey Medical Center can fluctuate. While publicly available data is often delayed, it's advisable to check the hospital's website or use online tools like the ER Wait Time app for real-time estimates. These times can be influenced by factors like the time of day, day of the week, and the overall patient volume.

**UPMC Harrisburg Hospital:**

Located in Harrisburg, this hospital is part of the UPMC system. It offers a range of medical services, including cancer care. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital’s CMS star rating is currently unavailable.

The hospital has a dedicated cancer center that provides lung cancer treatment. The center provides a multidisciplinary approach to care, including medical and radiation oncology services. UPMC Harrisburg Hospital also offers advanced imaging capabilities and surgical options. Telehealth services are available, but the scope and specific statistics on their use for lung cancer patients may vary. Patients should inquire directly about telehealth options during consultations.

ER wait times at UPMC Harrisburg Hospital, like those at other hospitals, can vary. Checking the hospital's website or using online resources is recommended for the most up-to-date information.

**Other Hospitals to Consider:**

Beyond the flagship hospitals, several other facilities in the broader area offer lung cancer care. These include:

* **WellSpan Health facilities:** WellSpan Health operates several hospitals in the region. These hospitals often offer cancer care services, including lung cancer treatment. The specific offerings and CMS ratings vary by location.
* **Community Hospitals:** Smaller community hospitals may provide basic lung cancer screening and treatment options. However, they may not have the same level of specialized resources or access to clinical trials as larger medical centers.

**Key Metrics: What to Look For**

Beyond the general reputation of a hospital, several specific factors are crucial when evaluating lung cancer care:

* **Specialized Lung Cancer Centers:** Look for hospitals with dedicated lung cancer centers or programs. These centers typically have multidisciplinary teams and access to advanced technologies.
* **Accreditation:** Accreditation by organizations like the Commission on Cancer (CoC) signifies a commitment to quality and comprehensive cancer care.
* **Surgical Expertise:** Inquire about the experience of thoracic surgeons, including the number of lung cancer surgeries performed annually and their use of minimally invasive techniques.
* **Radiation Oncology Capabilities:** Assess the availability of advanced radiation therapy techniques, such as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT).
* **Medical Oncology Services:** Evaluate the availability of medical oncologists specializing in lung cancer and their access to the latest chemotherapy and targeted therapies.
* **Clinical Trials:** Explore whether the hospital participates in clinical trials, which can provide access to cutting-edge treatments.
* **Telehealth Options:** Determine the availability of telehealth services for consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups.
* **Patient Satisfaction:** Review patient satisfaction scores and testimonials, which can provide insights into the patient experience.
* **ER Wait Times:** While not directly related to lung cancer care, long ER wait times can be a sign of overall hospital capacity and resource allocation.

**Telehealth: A Growing Component**

Telehealth is playing an increasingly important role in cancer care. It allows patients to access consultations, follow-up appointments, and support groups remotely. This can be particularly beneficial for patients who live far from the hospital or have mobility issues. The availability and scope of telehealth services vary by hospital. Patients should inquire directly about telehealth options during consultations.

**ER Wait Times: A Practical Consideration**

While not directly related to lung cancer treatment, ER wait times can be a practical consideration. Long wait times can be stressful and inconvenient. Patients should check the hospital's website or use online tools to get an estimate of current wait times.

**Making the Choice: A Personalized Approach**

Choosing the right hospital for lung cancer treatment is a deeply personal decision. Patients should consider their individual needs, preferences, and the specific characteristics of each hospital. It's essential to gather information, ask questions, and consult with their primary care physician and other healthcare providers.

**Resources for Further Research:**

* **Hospital Websites:** Visit the websites of the hospitals mentioned above for detailed information about their services, physicians, and patient resources.
* **CMS Hospital Compare:** The CMS website provides valuable information, including hospital ratings and quality metrics.
* **Cancer Society Websites:** Organizations like the American Cancer Society and the Lung Cancer Research Foundation offer valuable information and support for patients.
* **Patient Reviews and Testimonials:** Read patient reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of other patients.

**Conclusion:**

The Harrisburg area offers a range of options for lung cancer care. By carefully considering the factors outlined in this review, patients near ZIP code 17023 can make an informed decision and find the best possible care for their individual needs. Remember to consult with your healthcare team and conduct thorough research to ensure the chosen hospital aligns with your specific requirements and preferences.